Cyberchondria: Review on Understanding Role of Health Anxiety, Health Locus of Control and Intolerance of Uncertainty

Abstract

Cyberchondria is a growing phenomenon where people repeatedly search online for health information, which instead of reducing worry, often increases anxiety. This review examines the psychological factors linked to cyberchondria, including health anxiety, health locus of control, and intolerance of uncertainty. Historical and theoretical perspectives how that cyberchondria has evolved from a narrow focus on hypochondriasis to a broader, multidimensional construct. Recent researches highlights that health anxiety plays a central role in cyberchondria, acting in a reciprocal cycle with online health searching. External health locus of control and intolerance of uncertainty further influence the tendency to engage in excessive online health information seeking. Despite the progress, the existing researches are mostly cross- sectional, Western-focused and often study variables in isolation. Future researches should explore these variables together, include diverse population, investigate protective measures and strategies. Understanding this is critical for identifying individuals at risk and developing effective ways to reduce distress caused by cyberchondria.